According to a TechRadar Software review, Microsoft has launched a referral program rewarding users who get others to switch to the Edge mobile browser, alongside a standalone app that can forcibly set Bing as the default search engine across multiple browsers. These measures spotlight Microsoft's ongoing push to increase usage of Edge and Bing but have triggered unease about the company's tactics among some users.
- Referral rewards incentivize Edge mobile adoption via Microsoft Rewards points.
- The 'Microsoft Recommended Search' app changes default search to Bing across several browsers.
- Users express concerns about forced search defaults, prompting some to consider Linux alternatives.
Product angle
The source review from TechRadar Software describes Microsoft’s strategy to boost Edge usage by offering referral incentives that reward users with Microsoft Rewards points for bringing new users to the mobile browser. Those referred must also actively use Bing search within the initial two weeks, tying search engine adoption closely with the browser promotion. The referral offer appears sporadic and is presented during active Edge mobile usage, emphasizing user engagement as a key metric.
In addition, the source identifies a standalone application dubbed 'Microsoft Recommended Search,' which facilitates switching a computer’s default search engine to Bing across several browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Brave through extension installs. While not currently deployed within Windows 11, the app's existence has caused users to speculate about possible future forcible default search changes, raising concerns about user choice and system control.
Best for / avoid if
This approach may suit users who want to capitalize on Microsoft Rewards and are open to integrating Edge and Bing into their browsing habits, especially those already engaged with the Microsoft ecosystem. It could appeal to individuals or organizations seeking tighter integration between browser and search services, with incentives providing a tangible benefit to switching and using Microsoft products on mobile platforms.
Conversely, users strongly protective of their browser independence or default search preferences, or those wary of Microsoft’s aggressive marketing and control strategies, should be cautious. The review highlights that some Windows 11 users are frustrated by such tactics, with a vocal group preferring to migrate to alternative operating systems like Linux, where they feel more autonomy over default software choices.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The referral program involves earning Microsoft Rewards points, which can be accumulated up to a certain monthly limit but does not have a direct monetary cost for users beyond installing and engaging with Edge and Bing. No subscription or premium payment plans are mentioned, suggesting the incentives are part of Microsoft’s broader user acquisition investment rather than a revenue-generating product tier.
Alternatives worth considering include mainstream browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, and Brave, which allow more user control over default search engines without third-party apps altering settings. For users concerned about privacy and autonomy, Linux-based operating systems also offer a full-stack alternative to Windows 11, where browser and search engine defaults are entirely user-driven, a factor cited by some users in online communities reacting to Microsoft’s moves.